Lede
Ashley Sanchez’s potential NWSL single-season goal record was denied when a goal against Gotham was ruled out for offside, leaving the North Carolina Courage winger one goal short of tying the 2024 mark.
The disallowed goal came after Sanchez had already scored 19 goals that season, matching the pattern of her most successful finishes — controlling a lofted cross from the left post and finding the back of the net. With the 20th goal wiped out by VAR, the moment slipped away as she celebrated with her team and fans tracking the tally on a handmade ‘Sanchez Goal-O-Meter.’ The incident underscored both her individual excellence and the fine margins of high-level soccer.
Key Facts
- Ashley Sanchez scored 19 goals for North Carolina Courage in the 2024 NWSL season.
- Her 20th goal against Gotham was disallowed for offside following a VAR review.
- The disallowed goal would have tied Temwa Chawinga’s 2024 NWSL single-season record of 20 goals.
- A teammate, Gianna Paul, was ruled offside in the buildup to the goal.
- The match took place at WakeMed Soccer Park in front of home supporters.
The Record Chase
Sanchez’s goal-scoring consistency this season has drawn attention across the NWSL. Her methodical approach — often receiving crosses at the left post and converting under pressure — has made her one of the league’s most reliable finishers. Each goal has been celebrated not just by teammates but by fans who updated a visible ‘Goal-O-Meter’ throughout the year.
With one goal separating her from the single-season record, the race appeared within reach heading into the final weeks of the regular season. Her ability to perform in clutch moments, combined with a new position and mindset after limited playing time at the 2023 World Cup, has revitalized her career trajectory.
VAR and the Offside Decision
The decision to disallow the goal came after the center referee consulted the VAR monitor, a standard procedure following goals in high-stakes matches. The ruling hinged on teammate Gianna Paul being in an offside position when the attacking play began, rendering the subsequent goal invalid under league rules.
While the call aligned with established regulations, it shifted momentum in the match against Gotham and ended any immediate possibility of Sanchez reaching the tied record in that contest. The moment highlighted how technology continues to influence outcomes, sometimes overriding individual brilliance in favor of procedural accuracy.
What We Know — and What We Don’t
Verified by the source:
- Sanchez scored 19 goals in the 2024 NWSL season prior to the disallowed goal.
- The 20th goal was disallowed due to a teammate’s offside.
- The record for most goals in an NWSL season is 20, held jointly by Sanchez and Temwa Chawinga.
Still unconfirmed:
- Final scores or standings resulting from the Gotham match.
- Sanchez’s current status regarding a potential USWNT recall.
- Exact date and time of the match.
- Whether Sanchez will have another opportunity to tie or break the record.
Why It Matters
Ashley Sanchez’s pursuit of the NWSL single-season goal record reflects how individual performance can elevate team dynamics and fan engagement. Her resurgence after limited World Cup exposure demonstrates resilience and adaptation, themes that resonate beyond sports into broader conversations about second chances and redefinition of success. The disallowed goal serves as a reminder of how tightly contested achievements remain vulnerable to split-second officiating decisions, especially where technology is involved.
What To Watch
Upcoming NWSL matches may offer Sanchez another chance to tie or surpass the single-season goal record. Her form will likely keep drawing attention from USWNT selectors monitoring players for future cycles.
Meta description: Ashley Sanchez’s record-tying NWSL goal was disallowed by VAR for offside, leaving her one short of the 2024 single-season mark.